Why did you decide to do an MBA?
My pre-Ivey role was the strategic partner for the NBA’s live-streaming launch in China, which was both thrilling and challenging. After several career talks with my mentor and supervisors, I came to recognize that I need to extend not only business knowledge but also a C-suite mindset to navigate ambiguity and uncertainty. Ivey’s case-based classroom approach and accelerated one-year schedule emerged as a perfect fit for me.
What is the most significant thing you've learned at Ivey?
Long hours are not necessarily exhausting. It is more about the issue you work on and the people you work with. Therefore, when considering my post-Ivey career path, I spend more time prototyping the team dynamics and the nature of their work. If I am committing to working 50+ hours per week, it is essential to make sure the experience is enjoyable in some way.
What's been the most surprising aspect of the Ivey MBA journey to date?
How fast-paced it could be! We are constantly juggling multiple priorities - coursework, networking, case preps, social events, and personal life. I believe that it is an integral part of the transformative experience by design. The perpetual shortage of time compels us to strategize our daily lives and deal with the feeling of being unprepared and uncomfortable.
What books are on your bedside table AND/OR what podcast are you listing to right now?
I've been listening to Beyond the Bio (Bain's podcast) recently when I jog.
The books that I've been reading are The Goal, The Story of Roman People IV, and Change by Design.
How do you manage stress (i.e. sports, exercise, meditation etc)?
- Never be sleep-deprived. Set boundaries to protect my 8 hours of sleep.
- Video chatting with friends and family. It felt like an excursion talking in my mother tongue.
- Jogging for at least 15 min every day.
Any additional info you might want to share (interesting facts, special hobbies etc.)
- I am an avid reader of history and anthropology as well as business reviews.
- I am a big foodie! Exploring restaurants and bars is a cherished aspect of my life. I also find road trips immensely joyful.
- I have been a devoted fan of soccer and basketball ever since my middle school days.
- Furthermore, I am passionate about big cat rescue.
Contact Sophie Tong
